Tea. An aromatic beverage commonly prepared by pouring hot or boiling water over cured leaves of the Camellia sinensis, an evergreenshrub (bush) native to East Asia. After water, it is the most widely consumed drink in the world. This according to Wikipedia. Whateevveerr. All I know is that there is nothing better than a hot cup of tea, or two, or three to get my morning, my afternoon and my evening started. Laughs. And ice tea is served year-round in my home as well. I also make a pretty mean currant scone which would make my British/Irish/Scot ancestors proud. So it should be no surprise that I would pay homage to tea at Petit Lac Des Cygnes.

Several builds were considered before settling on the Pavilion de Boulogne by China & Goodies. It’s not a massive structure; four rooms in all measuring 19 meters x 24 meters. Land impact is on the heavy side, but the Pavilion textures and overall appearance are outstanding.

The vestibule is the first room you enter. Its furnishings while ornate are kept to a minimum. In the center of the room is a round table with a small portrait of Marie Antoinette, for which the Pavilion is named. Lilacs scent the air.

Off to one side of the vestibule is the former boudoir now a private dining room for two.

Returning to the vestibule, through the double doors you will find the oval Grand salon. Here is the main tearoom furnished with white wrought iron furniture, afternoon tea, and all the trimmings. The doors can be opened to catch the gentle breeze.

On the other side of the vestibule is a “raucheffoir,” or small warming kitchen where tea and all it entails is prepared.

Outside in the surrounding garden are tables, each set with a different tea set that is interactive. Armillaries house an intan, birds chirp merrily, water trickles softly from the fountain while lights twinkle through the maple trees. A lovely spot for friends to gather or maybe a romantic interlude for two?

It starts with a dream. Add faith, and it becomes a belief. Add action, and it becomes a part of life. Add perseverance, and it becomes a goal in sight. Add patience and time, and it ends with a dream come true. ~ Doe Zantamata

For those that want to refresh their memory or those that have not read the previous installment, you can find it here.

In June of 2010, a raven-haired young woman from the United States of America traveled to France and presented documents to the government with claims of being the rightful heir to the château. With the help of several trusted solicitors, and fluent in the French language she eloquently presented her case to the Council of Ministers. Upon completion of a stringent verification process, that took several years to complete, the château, and surrounding lands were deeded back to the family in perpetuity. While the original family name is shrouded in mystery, there are whispers that the young woman is a descendant of the French aristocracy. Mind you, these are but whispers.

Upon securing the family inheritance, the young woman immediately set about restoring the long-neglected château, gardens, and surrounding land. Word soon spread throughout the countryside, and the area residents overcome with curiosity stopped by to welcome the new occupant and see for themselves the stunning transformation taking place. So impressed by her determination to restore the stately château, and return it and the grounds to their former glory, the locals have become highly protective of the lady’s efforts, helping where needed, and taking it upon themselves to watch over their “Lady” and Petit Lac Des Cygne.

Present day

Restoration is nearing completion on the château and gardens. The “Lion de Montagne,” as she is affectionately known by the locals, has graciously opened her home and surrounding grounds to the public.

Postscript

There is a script limit of 75 and avatar complexity of 200,000 along with being a No FLY ZONE. You will be notified on landing if you are not in compliance.

Upon landing, you will receive a folder with notecards inside. Read them. I repeat, read them. They are a wealth of information and will help to make your visit a pleasant one.